Ranthambore Tourism

There are many interesting spots for you to see in Ranthambore National Park.The Ranthambore National Park is regarded as the most suitable place for wildlife photography in the world. Here you can capture the tiger in its various moods and moments. Besides the Ranthambore Park, there are places like the Ranthambore Fort (one of its kind in the entire state of Rajasthan), Jogi Mahal (the wonderful forest guesthouse) and the various species of flora and fauna, which are also worth a look.

Ranthambore Fort
This majestic fort is the landmark of Ranthambore National Park. Situated about 5kms inside the wildlife reserve, Ranthambore Fort is the marvel of the Chauhan dynasty. The construction of the fort began in 944 AD under the rule of King Sapaldaksha but it was during the time period of Rao Hammir Deo Chauhan that the fort took shape. It is recognized by UNESCO World Heritage Site that places it under the title ‘Hill Forts of Rajasthan’. The mansion is built upon a 700ft high hill and is one of the major attractions in Ranthambore National Park. Once this fort severed as a royal hunting reserve and had a sprawling jungle around it giving enough space to carry out this adventure sport. However during the 1950s it became a part of the ‘Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary’ that was set up to conserve the dwindling wildlife in the area.

Trinetra Ganesh Temple
Situated inside Ranthambore Fort, Trinetra Ganesh Temple is yet another attraction in Ranthambore National Park. Trinetra (Three-Eyed) Ganesh or Pratham Ganesh Temple is amongst the oldest temples in Rajasthan. It is one of those temples, where one can find the deities of the entire family of Lord Ganesha. The temple was built by King Hammer, who is believed to be an ardent devotee of Lord Ganesha. The legend has it that while King Hammer was at war here, their stocks of food were running out. Then one night, Lord Ganesha appeared before the King and assured him that the stocks will be filled and his problems will be solved by the next morning. Miraculously, the next day, the war ceased and the food stock replenished; therefore the king decided to build a temple for Lord Gamesha here. A large number of Ganesha devotees throng this temple and five aartis are held each day here.

Surwal Lake
Set amidst quaint settings, Surwal Lake is one of the best places for sightseeing near Ranthambore Park. This lake is the haven for many birds, which are seen here catching fishes especially during winter season. It is a shallow lake, which dries out in summer; therefore it is ideal to visit this place either in monsoon or in winter. The best time of the day to visit here is morning when many birds are seen picking up their breakfast from here. Tucked in isolation, Surwal Lake is ideal for those seeking some solace and peace.

Padam Lake
This is the largest lake in this Wildlife Reserve and is one of the main sources of water for the wild animals. The best time of the day to visit here is early morning, when a large number of animals are seen drinking at the lake. One can also spot the rare Chinkara deer here as well. The lake looks more beautiful during the season of water lilies; in fact this is why the lake got its name as Padam, which literally means flowers.

Kachida Valley
This valley is located close to the outskirts of the Park and is mostly inhabited by Panthers and Bears. The area is surrounded by low jagged hills, which enhances the beauty of this place making it one of the best places to visit in Ranthambore. Animals like deer and wild boars are also found in good numbers while Sloth bears are mostly seen in this area looking for honey combs and fruits.

Jogi Mahal
Situated on one side of Padam Lake, Jogi Mahal was used as a rest house for the visitors. Due to its scenic location, it has become a popular place in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve; unfortunately accommodation in Jogi Mahal has been restricted now. Near the Mahal is a tall banyan tree, which is considered one of the largest banyan trees in India.

Lakarda and Anantpura
These regions Lakarda and Anantpura make the Northern and North-Western region of the Park. Along with Indian Sloth Bear, a large number of porcupines and monkeys can be seen here. It is one of those few places in this wildlife reserve, where the pugmarks of the Indian striped Hyenas can be seen. This species of hyena has a very small population in the jungle and Lakarda and Anantpura are amongst those few spots where there is a possibility of sighting these otherwise rare species.

Malik Talao
A small lake in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Malik Talao is best known as a haven for birds. This small yet scenic lake is also the home to the Marsh Crocodiles. Kingfishers, egrets, herons, ibis, storks and cranes are some of the commonly spotted birds at Malik Talao making it the perfect place for birdwatching in Ranthambore.

How to Reach here

The nearest airport reach Ranthambore National Park is Sanganer Airport in Jaipur. The distance between Jaipur and Ranthambore is about 150 km and there are regular flights for Jaipur from all the major cities including, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, etc.